Four years had passed.
The stone walls of Aurelia Academy still gleamed under the sunlight, but its corridors had grown busier—more disciplined, more focused. Elias, now fourteen, had become proficient in small-scale offensive and defensive techniques using the element of Light. Riven, swift and agile with his jet-black hair, had surpassed him in agility and directional control through mastery of the Air element.
As they stepped into the academy's main courtyard, students were scattered across the open space, channeling their elements, testing their growing powers. Lyra was forming a small healing circle with Water; Kael focused intently on exercises of weight and endurance using Earth.
Elias watched Riven in action, a slight smile tugging at his lips.
"Four years... and you're still one step ahead of me," he said.
Riven tilted his head with a calm smile.
"Maybe so. But today might be different, Thorn. Be ready."
Master Marwen walked through the rows of students, offering a brief yet purposeful reminder:
"Today, each of you will channel your element with intention. If your body and spirit are ready—direct the energy. If not, then feel it. Observe. Learn."
Elias took a deep breath, stretching his hands forward. The Light within him shimmered like a spark, spreading with controlled radiance. Riven summoned flowing currents of wind, sharp and fluid in motion—his element responding with grace and speed.
Lyra approached with a soft smile.
"Your Light is really something, Elias. But Riven's wind... it dances like it's alive."
"Thanks, Lyra," Elias replied. "But I won't just stand by and watch. I'll keep improving—until I catch up."
In the far corners of the courtyard, other students displayed their talents:
Mira Vel manipulated fire in flickering sparks, creating small, controlled bursts.
Seraphine Lume radiated energy with a blend of light and heat, drawing the eye naturally.
Dorian Kal raised the earth into solid barriers, shaping terrain with focus.
Torin Grell flowed water in elegant, cyclic patterns, maintaining balance.
Fenric Hal conjured faint ghostlike figures with his Shadow element, eerie but captivating.
Arion Vey crackled with electric energy, sending sharp bolts zigzagging midair with rapid precision.
Elias centered himself, listening to the voice within.
"Four years… Has it been enough? Can I finally stand equal with Riven?"
Riven stepped beside him, eyes bright with challenge.
"Stop thinking, Thorn. Start moving."
They stood opposite each other now. Elias summoned his Light into a radiant shield, preparing for defense. Riven, swift as wind, launched an attack with fluid momentum. Elias responded with sharp reflexes, deflecting the blow and countering with a focused burst of energy.
As the two tested each other's skills, Master Marwen moved between them, offering crisp observations.
"Good. You're both in tune with your elements. But remember—real battles aren't won with power alone. Strategy. Will. Those are the true deciding factors."
By the end of the session, the students were exhausted—but fulfilled. Progress was clear: every student had begun to wield their element with more awareness and control. Elias glanced over at Riven and offered a genuine smile.
"You're still faster than me. But I'll close the gap. Just wait."
Riven chuckled softly.
"Be patient, Thorn. This path is long... but it's going to be fun."
As dusk fell, the students retreated to their dorms. Boys and girls were kept in separate quarters, watched over by patrolling supervisors. Lying in bed, Elias let the day replay in his mind—the training, the growth, the feeling of limits expanding. Four years had carved his foundation, but Riven had remained both rival and inspiration.
Tomorrow was a big day.
But Elias no longer watched from the sidelines.
He was ready—to shine with his own light.